Marking the arrival of Spring, cherry blossoms, known as “Sakura” have long been celebrated in Japan for their transient nature and fleeting beauty. They are a reminder that life is short, and by admiring the blossoms, you can feel present in the moment.
Flower viewing known as “Hanami” is a centuries old tradition where each year from mid-March until early May, people from all over Japan gather for picnics and parties under the blossoming cherry trees.
With over 460 kilometres of operating track, Tobu Railway is the Kanto region’s largest private railway used by daily commuters and tourists. Its network extends through Tokyo and four surrounding prefectures: Chiba, Saitama, Tochigi, and Gunma.
Tobu Railway is one of many companies comprising the Tobu Group, which operates hotels, department stores, theme parks and notable attractions such as Tokyo Skytree.
Here are three unmissable cherry blossom viewing areas that you can travel to via Tobu Railway:
1. Gokoku-jinja Shrine in Kinugawa Onsen
Located at the foot of Mount Maruyama, Gokoku-jinja Shrine is considered one of the best spots for cherry blossom viewing in Kinugawa Onsen as the cherry trees in full bloom create a striking backdrop for the torii gates and other Shinto structures in the vicinity.
Each year from the beginning of April, the Kinugawa Onsen Cherry Blossom Festival is held, and it’s an event not to be missed. In the evening, the cherry trees are lit from below, highlighting their vibrant colours against the dark sky. This year, the festival will be held from 4 April to 6 April.
One of the best ways to enjoy Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing is at night, and what’s special about this area is that you can enjoy a relaxing soak in the Kinugawa Onsen hot springs afterward. The cherry blossom night lighting be held from 28 March to 6 April.
Located 120 minutes by Tobu Railway Limited Express Train “SPACIA X” from Tobu Asakusa Station in Tokyo, Gokoku-jinja Shrine is about a 15-minute walk from Kinugawa-Koen Station or a 30-minute walk from Kinugawa Onsen Station.
The ‘NIKKO PASS all area’ allows commuters to not only enjoy the shrines and temples of Nikko’s world heritage sites, but also other destinations including the Okunikko area and Lake Chuzenji as well as Kinugawa Onsen.
2. Sumida Park and Sumida River Walk in Downtown Tokyo
During the Edo period, the Sumida River played a major part in water transportation. It was also a popular spot for leisurely boat rides, fireworks, and various types of recreation that inspired Japanese art and literature.
Today, Sumida Park is considered one of the quietest and most beautiful areas of Tokyo. Not only is it walking distance to the historical Asakusa district, but is in the powerful presence of Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan with a world-class observatory deck.
During spring, visitors can enjoy strolling through Sumida Park and along the cherry tree lined River Walk. Tokyo Skytree, which showcases Japan’s architectural might and technological advancements, can be seen amongst an enchanting nature backdrop of cherry trees, creating a beautiful and lasting memory.
Located close by is Asakusa Tobu Hotel, a great location for accommodation with reasonable rates that is ideal for families or groups of three or more.
For those who enjoy a scenic view from their hotel room, Levant Hotel offers various types of rooms for small groups and families, as well as views of Tokyo Skytree. There is also convenient access to Kinshicho Station, just a 3-minute walk from Exit 3.
Furthermore, the Taito-Sumida Tokyo Shitamachi Excursion Ticket by Tobu Railway offers unlimited train and bus rides in designated areas as well as special offers including discounts at facilities in the Taito and Sumida areas.
3. Gongendo Sakura Tsutsumi in Satte City
One of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in the Kanto region, Gongendo Sakura Tsutsumi in Satte City is unique for its wonderful contrast between the pale pink of cherry blossoms and the yellow of the mustard fields.
Each year in spring, over 1,000 Yoshino cherry trees bloom along a 1km-long embankment, creating a tunnel of cherry blossoms.
From late March until early April, a Cherry Blossom Festival is held with 100 or more stalls and various events, attracting many cherry blossom viewers.
Satte City is directly accessible via the Tobu Isesaki Line, making it a convenient connection to Tokyo.
